Lettuce Wrap Chicken Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Try Today

Name: Lettuce Wrap Chicken Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Try Today
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup celery, diced; 1/4 cup grapes, halved; 1/4 cup almonds, chopped; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 head of lettuce, leaves separated

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 27, 2025

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Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy twist on chicken salad, you’ve landed in the right place. Let me tell you, these lettuce wrap chicken salads are a game changer! They’re super easy to whip up, and trust me, they fit perfectly into a low-calorie diet without sacrificing flavor. I love making these for summer picnics – there’s just something about enjoying a light meal outside, feeling the sun on your face while biting into that crunchy lettuce filled with creamy chicken salad. Yum!

lettuce wrap chicken salad - detail 1

Picture this: tender shredded chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, and a delightful crunch from celery and almonds all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also refreshing. Plus, you can customize it to your heart’s content! Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself, these wraps are a breeze to make and will impress everyone at the table. So, let’s dive into creating this delightful dish together!

Ingredients for Lettuce Wrap Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious lettuce wraps! Gather these fresh ingredients, and you’ll be ready to roll (or wrap, in this case!) in no time:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, whether it’s leftover rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breast. Just make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy wrapping!
1/2 cup Greek yogurt: This is the creamy base of your chicken salad. It keeps things light and adds a nice tangy flavor. Use plain, full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt, depending on your preference.
1/4 cup celery, diced: The celery gives a lovely crunch to the salad. Make sure to dice it finely so you get that satisfying crunch in every bite!
1/4 cup grapes, halved: For a sweet pop of flavor, these grapes are a delightful surprise. Red or green works perfectly, just make sure they’re halved for easy mixing and wrapping.
1/4 cup almonds, chopped: Almonds add a wonderful nutty crunch. Feel free to swap them out for your favorite nuts or seeds if you want a little variety!
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor to the salad. You can adjust the amount based on how much zing you like!
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the entire dish. I love using freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor!
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season your salad! A little sprinkle of salt and pepper goes a long way in bringing out all those delicious flavors.
1 head of lettuce, leaves separated: For the wraps, you can use iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce. Just separate the leaves and wash them thoroughly to make sure they’re crisp and clean.

How to Prepare Lettuce Wrap Chicken Salad

Now that you’ve gathered all your fresh ingredients, let’s dive into the simple steps to whip up this delicious lettuce wrap chicken salad. Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward, and I’ll guide you through each step!

Combine the ingredients: In a big mixing bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, diced celery, halved grapes, and chopped almonds. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix everything gently but thoroughly. You want each piece of chicken coated in that creamy goodness!
Add the flavor boosters: Now, drizzle in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really adjust the flavor to your liking! If you like a bit more tang, go ahead and add an extra squeeze of lemon juice.
Mix it up: Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined and coated in that yummy dressing. This step is key – you want every bite bursting with flavor!
Prepare the lettuce wraps: Take a clean lettuce leaf and spoon a generous amount of your chicken salad mixture onto the center. Don’t overload it; you want to be able to wrap it without it spilling out!
Wrap it up: Fold the sides of the lettuce leaf over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to the top. Voila! You’ve got yourself a delightful little wrap. If you’re serving these at a gathering, I recommend doing this right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh!

And there you have it! These wraps are best enjoyed immediately after assembling. The lettuce stays crunchy, and the flavors are at their peak. Trust me, you won’t want to let these sit too long. Now, dig in and savor every bite of your fresh, healthy creation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this lettuce wrap chicken salad isn’t just another salad. It’s a delightful experience packed with benefits that make it stand out! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

Quick preparation time: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need something nutritious without the hassle!
Healthy ingredients: Loaded with protein from the chicken and packed with vitamins from fresh veggies, this dish is not only light but nourishing. The Greek yogurt also keeps the calories low while adding creaminess!
Customizable flavors: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste buds. Want more crunch? Add some cucumbers! Prefer a sweet twist? Toss in some apples or swap the grapes for dried cranberries. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for meal prep: These wraps are ideal for making ahead of time. Just store the chicken salad mixture in the fridge and assemble the wraps right before you eat. It’s a fantastic way to have healthy lunches or snacks ready to go!
A refreshing alternative to traditional salads: If you’re tired of the same old salad routine, these lettuce wraps offer a light, fun twist. The crunch of the lettuce paired with the creamy salad filling makes every bite a joy!

Seriously, once you try these, you’ll be hooked! They’re a refreshing, healthy option that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. What’s not to love?

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your lettuce wrap chicken salad turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks to elevate this dish and ensure you get the best flavors and textures:

Choose the right lettuce: While any lettuce works, I recommend using large, sturdy leaves like romaine or butter lettuce. They hold up better when wrapping and won’t tear easily. Plus, they add a nice crunch!
Make it your own: Don’t be afraid to experiment! If you’re not a fan of grapes, try diced apples or even some diced bell peppers for a different flavor. Want a bit of heat? Toss in some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes!
Season to taste: Taste your chicken salad mixture before serving! Sometimes a little extra salt or a splash more lemon juice can make a world of difference. Adjust it until it’s just right for you!
Chill before serving: If you have a bit of time, let the chicken salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for an even tastier wrap!
Don’t overload the wraps: When filling the lettuce leaves, be mindful not to overstuff them. A small scoop of chicken salad goes a long way, and it’ll be much easier to wrap and eat without everything spilling out!
Pair with dipping sauce: For an extra flavor boost, consider serving your wraps with a light dipping sauce. A quick mix of soy sauce, a splash of sesame oil, and a hint of honey makes a delightful dip that complements the chicken salad beautifully!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious and satisfying lettuce wraps. Happy cooking!

Variations on Lettuce Wrap Chicken Salad

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of delicious variations you can try with your lettuce wrap chicken salad! Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Swap the protein: While I adore shredded chicken, you can easily use other proteins! Try diced turkey for a leaner option, or even shredded rotisserie duck if you’re feeling fancy. For a vegetarian twist, chickpeas or tofu work great too!
Nut alternatives: If you’re not a fan of almonds or have a nut allergy, don’t worry! Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can add a delightful crunch without the nuts. You could even use toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair!
Add extra veggies: Want to pack in more nutrients? Toss in some diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even chopped bell peppers. These not only add color but also bring refreshing flavors that complement the salad beautifully!
Go fruity: If you’re in the mood for a sweeter salad, try adding diced apples or pears instead of grapes. A handful of dried cranberries or raisins can also add a lovely sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory elements.
Herb it up: Fresh herbs can elevate your salad to a whole new level! Consider throwing in some chopped cilantro, parsley, or even dill for an extra burst of flavor. These herbs can really brighten up the dish!
Spice it up: Feeling bold? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a zesty kick. You can also mix in some curry powder for an exotic twist that’ll have your taste buds dancing!

With these variations, you can make this lettuce wrap chicken salad a little different every time. Feel free to mix and match based on your cravings or what you have on hand. The best part? It’s all about making it your own, so let your creativity shine!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional perks of these delightful lettuce wrap chicken salads! Keep in mind that the following values are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re biting into:

Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

As you can see, these wraps are not only light and refreshing, but they also pack a protein punch with the chicken and Greek yogurt. Plus, they’re low in calories and filled with fiber from the veggies, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy meal or snack. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with every crunchy bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about the lettuce wrap chicken salad? No problem! I’ve gathered some of the most common inquiries and provided answers to help you navigate this delicious dish with ease:

Can I store leftovers? Absolutely! If you have any leftover chicken salad, just place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It should be good for about 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the lettuce leaves separate until you’re ready to eat, so they stay nice and crisp!
What can I use instead of chicken? Great question! You can swap out the chicken for various proteins. Diced turkey or shredded rotisserie duck work well. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas, tofu, or even black beans can be delicious substitutes!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken salad mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and then assemble the wraps right before serving to keep the lettuce fresh and crunchy!
Is this recipe gluten-free? It can be! As long as you use gluten-free Dijon mustard and check the ingredients of any added items, this lettuce wrap chicken salad can fit perfectly into a gluten-free diet.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt? No worries! You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular plain yogurt, sour cream, or even mayo if you prefer a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly, but it’ll still be tasty!
Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you love. Diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even chopped cucumbers would be fantastic additions that boost both flavor and nutrition!

I hope these answers help you feel confident in making your lettuce wrap chicken salad! If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those scrumptious leftovers from your lettuce wrap chicken salad! Proper storage will keep the flavors fresh and delicious, so you can enjoy them again without a hitch.

First off, if you have any leftover chicken salad mixture, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay good for about 2-3 days. Just remember, keep the lettuce leaves separate until you’re ready to serve again! This way, the lettuce remains crisp and won’t get soggy.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, there’s no need for reheating since this dish is meant to be served cold. Just scoop a generous portion of your chicken salad mixture onto a fresh lettuce leaf, wrap it up, and dig in! If you absolutely must warm it up, do so gently in the microwave for just a few seconds, but I really recommend enjoying it cold for the best texture and flavor.

And there you have it! With these simple storage tips, you can savor your lettuce wrap chicken salad for days to come. Happy munching!

Serving Suggestions

Alright, now that you’ve whipped up your delightful lettuce wrap chicken salad, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create a complete meal! These wraps are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with a few tasty sides can take your dining experience to the next level. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad complements the savory chicken wraps beautifully. Toss together some seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus for a burst of color and sweetness.
Vegetable sticks and hummus: Crunchy carrot and cucumber sticks paired with a creamy hummus dip make for a great crunchy side. The flavors work together perfectly, and it’s an easy, healthy option!
Quinoa salad: A chilled quinoa salad loaded with veggies, herbs, and a light vinaigrette is a hearty side that adds a nice texture contrast to your wraps. Plus, it’s super filling and nutritious!
Chips and salsa: If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, a side of tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole can elevate your meal. It adds a fun, festive touch!
Soup: A light soup, like a gazpacho or a broth-based vegetable soup, pairs wonderfully with the wraps. It warms up the meal without overshadowing the fresh flavors of your chicken salad.
Herbal tea or infused water: To drink, consider serving a refreshing herbal tea or infused water with slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint. It keeps the meal light and adds a lovely, refreshing twist!

These serving suggestions will round out your meal beautifully and keep things exciting at the table. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your perfect combination! Happy feasting!